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Wednesday, June 9, 2010

I like catchy titles -- they're fun and yes, they catch your attention. But with eBay auctions, I believe what really matters is the facts -- with ample (appropriate) keywords.

Here are a few suggestions for book listings on eBay.

What is the title?
What is the publication date? (see copyright page -- you are looking for the latest date mentioned)
Who was the author?
Is the illustrator memorable (i.e. N.C. Wyeth, Eloise Wilkin)?
Is it a hardcover (HC) or paperback (PB)?
Is it vintage (VTG)?
Will buyers be searching by book type -- i.e. Community Cookbook, Little Golden Book, etc.?
Is it signed? Or a First Edition (1st)?

I am not a fan of descriptive versus specific auction titles -- i.e. DARLING BEAGLE BOOK 1944. That is not going to catch your buyer's attention if he or she is looking for a specific book (or author, or illustrator).

I am also not a fan of wasted words -- i.e. BEAUTIFUL, LOOK, MUST SEE.

In eBay titles, I believe it's best to follow the advice of Sgt. Joe Friday from Dragnet: "Just the facts, ma'm."

About Me

Trish is a long-time online seller who loves all things vintage, but especially vintage children's books and ephemera. In other lives, worked as a bookstore manager and preschool teacher. Always pursuing vintage treasures, great reads, interesting words, and happiness.